Is it a coincidence that a video showing researchers using one of GE's 3D printers to make these ornaments has been switched to private? Because I want them to know that this is an awesome use of their R&D budget.

Seriously. If I had access to a 3D printer I wouldn't be prototyping parts. I'd be using it to spit out all kinds of crazy stuff. Plastic throwing stars, creative business cards, even custom army men brandishing ray guns. And the aviation nut in me would also probably cook up a couple of these miniature jet engines to hang on my Christmas tree. If abusing company property in the name of research is wrong, I don't want to be right. [GE via Make]